Recently, Tri-City Voice received a call asking for information about advertising for a kidney donor. What drives someone to do something so desperate?

Almas "Lida" Nazari appears to be like any healthy, young woman in the prime of her life; with hopes and dreams that most of us take for granted. Immigrating to the United States from Afghanistan in 1989, she grew up in Union City and is currently attending Ohlone College studying to become a nurse.

In 1999, 19-year-old Lida, looking forward to starting her freshman year, received devastating news; she was diagnosed with chronic renal failure. The next 9 months would be spent in the company of a hemodialysis machine.

Hemodialysis uses an artificial kidney (hemodialyzer) to remove waste, extra chemicals and fluid from the blood. Blood from the patient is diverted to the artificial kidney where it is cleansed then returned; the three- to four-hour process is performed several times a week. Lida is currently undergoing outpatient dialysis in Fremont. The only alternative to continued dialysis, its restrictions and side effects is a successful kidney transplant.

Lida's younger sister volunteered to be a donor after tests determined she was a good candidate. In 2002, the operation was successful and Lida was able to lead a normal life for the next five years until her body rejected the donor kidney in 2007. Although one of ten siblings, Lida's remaining brothers and sisters are not considered a suitable match.

Pursuit of a nursing career has suffered from Lida'a condition; sometimes requiring hospitalization. Classes and even semesters have been dropped. Married two years ago, Lida is constantly juggling to keep her family life, school and treatments running smoothly. Some days, the pain is so severe, she is unable to move. Her husband has been very caring and supportive throughout her ordeal and she counts her blessings that her sister and brother-in-law are close by to help. Lida's mother and other siblings live in Stockton and keep an eagle eye on her as well; she has a great support network. She is currently registered with UCSF Medical Center's Kidney Transplant Program.

In spite of her ordeal, Lida is optimistic that someone will be willing to share their good health with her and determined to become a nurse no matter how long it takes; she also dreams of starting a family.

To find out more about this procedure and see if you are a possible match (blood group O) with Lida Sulaiman, contact her at (510) 789-6119. The donor's surgery will be covered 100%.